“Los Poblanos is a true gem for the community and for visitors from across the globe,” said Stephanie Meeks, president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. “Its natural beauty and comfort — combined with its fascinating history and character — make it one of the most magnificent historic properties in the Southwest.”

While most inns are thrilled to be able to claim they are full service inns, Los Poblanos goes far beyond just being a full service inn to offer luxury accommodations, a restaurant serving haute cuisine and foods indigenous to New Mexico’s Rio Grande River Valley, a cultural and educational center, a Farm Shop offering lavender spa products and other quality products created on the property, a working organic farm, and acres of beautiful and fragrant lavender fields.

All of these interesting and luxurious attractions can be found in Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, NM, on a property designed in 1932 by famed architect John Gaw Meem, the “Father of Santé Fe Style.” Los Poblanos has expertly positioned themselves on the line between refined and rugged offering guests the opportunity to experience a real working farm while also offering top-notch guest rooms with amenities such as bed and bath linens by Curran NY and Coyuchi Organic, lavender bath products, custom crafted furnishings and Tivoli alarm clocks.

The Los Poblanos ranch land was originally owned by Ambrosio and Juan Cristobal Armijoin the 19th century and then by Congressman Albert Simms and his wife and Congresswoman Ruth Hannah McCormick Simms in the 1930s. In 1932 the Simms commissioned Meem to renovate the original ranch house and create a cultural center for political and community events, as well as gardens designed by Rose Greeley.

The La Quinta Cultural Center that was created served as headquarters for the Simms’ cultural and educational endeavors including the founding of Manzano Day School, Sandia Prep, Albuquerque Academy, and Albuquerque Little Theatre.

In 1999 the Rembe family saved the property from development. Today Los Poblanos encompasses the original headquarters and private residence of the 800-acre ranch the Simms operated. The family now works to preserve agricultural fields, formal gardens, art and architecture of Los Poblanos through sustainable practices. The original residence is now a small inn and the cultural center operates as it was originally intended, hosting meetings, parties, and educational and cultural events.

The Rembes worked with leading preservationists and planners to complete a renovation project that allows Los Poblanos to provide 21st century amenities and luxuries while preserving the historical significance, agricultural, architecture and gardens that make Los Poblanos unique.

Los Poblanos is a member of the New Mexico Historic Registry, on the National Registry of Historic Places, and a USDA Certified Organic Farm.

The award was presented to the Rembe family at the Richard H. Driehaus National Preservation Awards ceremony in Indianapolis, Indiana, on November 1, 2013.

The National Preservation Awards are bestowed on distinguished individuals, nonprofit organizations, public agencies and corporations whose skill and determination have given new meaning to their communities through preservation of our architectural and cultural heritage. These efforts include citizens’ attempts to save and maintain important landmarks; companies and craftsmen whose work restores the richness of the past; the vision of public officials who support preservation projects and legislation in their communities; and educators and journalists who help Americans understand the value of preservation. The winners of the National Preservation Awards will appear online at www.PreservationNation.org/awards.

Previous recipients of the Trustees Emeritus Award for Excellence in the Stewardship of Historic Sites include the Jane Addams Hull House Museum in Chicago, Illinois; the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation in Santa Barbara, California; and the Newport Restoration Foundation in Newport, Rhode Island.

Los Poblanos is an excellent example of the quality accommodations and unique experiences offered at Select Registry properties across North America. While no two properties are alike, they all offer luxury rooms and an unsurpassed level of service. For information on other Select Registry historic properties, visit the Select Registry website.